A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bergen vs. Mont-Saint-Michel for Attractions, Couples, Families, and Food

Should you visit Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Bergen

Bergen is a laid back, nostalgic, and friendly city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a historic, breathtaking, and inspiring island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and hiking.

Bergen and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bergen. Although Bergen and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Bergen has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bergen is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Mont-Saint-Michel is known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Bergen and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. Bergen is popular for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty. It is also home to Bryggen.

How is Bergen different from Mont-Saint-Michel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mont-Saint-Michel and Bergen. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Mont-Saint-Michel is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Mont-Saint-Michel on the map. Visitors come to see the iconic Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel which has been the inspiration for tourists and religious pilgrims for centuries. Make sure you see the Ramparts and La Grande Rue.

Bergen is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.

Is the Food Better in Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Bergen and Mont-Saint-Michel offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Bergen area. The city's economy has long been centered around the fish trade and even today you'll find cod, shellfish, trout, and salmon on most menus. Sheep and mutton are also popular. Desserts and coffee are also a big part of the local culture.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Mont-Saint-Michel. There are a number of local restaurants to choose from that serve authentic French cuisine including the pre-salted sheep, which is a local specialty.

Is Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Bergen is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Bergen has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's a small city without a huge nightlife district, but there are bars and clubs in Bryggen and Old Bulls Plass. The city has enough students to keep things lively and fun.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Mont-Saint-Michel Most people visit the island as a daytrip and nightlife is essentially nonexistent.

Is Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for its Old Town?

Bergen is very good for its old town. However, Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Bergen to see the old town. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.

Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.

Is Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Hiking?

Mont-Saint-Michel is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bergen is not a hiking destination.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a good destination for hiking. There's a 4.2 mile out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Bergen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Bergen is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bergen is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center is filled with specialty boutiques as well as larger department stores. Shopping has long been a large part of the economy and you'll enjoy exploring the diversity of retail options.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Families?

Bergen is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Bergen is a very kid-friendly city. There are some interesting educational opportunities for kids including the Bergen Aquarium, VilVite Science Centre, and Experience Bryggen. Other fun activities include Vannkanten Waterworld and the Fløibanen Funicular.

For families, Mont-Saint-Michel is not always the best place to visit. Kids may enjoy a horse drawn carriage ride or exploring the grounds, but it can make for a long day for kids with short attention spans.

Is Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel is very popular for couples. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Mont-Saint-Michel makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a stunning setting and makes a romantic backdrop for a couples holiday, whether it's part of a longer trip to France or a short weekend away.

Bergen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic activities near town like swimming in the fjords and walking through the parks. There are also spas and music concerts to enjoy.

Is Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Bergen and Mont-Saint-Michel are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bergen. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.

Mont-Saint-Michel is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find a couple of hostels an cheap hotels in the area.

Is Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Students?

Bergen is very good for students. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

Bergen is popular with students. It's a very student-friendly city with many activities and a laid back atmosphere. The university facilities are spread out around town and the locals are welcoming and helpful.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

Is Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bergen is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Bergen has some very good public transit options. For the areas that are outside of the city center, you can take a local bus or the light rail to access them. These services are operated by Skyss.

While Mont-Saint-Michel offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a free shuttle bus that connects Mont-Saint-Michel to the mainland.

Is Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel a more walkable city?

Bergen and Mont-Saint-Michel both are great when exploring on foot.

Bergen is a very walkable destination. The city center is flat and compact enough that it's fun to explore on foot.

Mont-Saint-Michel is very walkable. There are many stunning walks in the area.

For even more information, also check out Is Bergen Worth Visiting? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel or Bergen?

How long in Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bergen than Mont-Saint-Michel because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bergen, and 1-2 days is enough time in Mont-Saint-Michel.

Families should spend more time in Bergen than Mont-Saint-Michel. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bergen, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel than Bergen. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Mont-Saint-Michel that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bergen than Mont-Saint-Michel if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bergen.

One day in Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Bergen, there's plenty to do. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the friendly city of Bergen, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid back destination of Bergen. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mont-Saint-Michel. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Bergen is a popular choice for travelers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the religious destination of Mont-Saint-Michel. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Norway, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Norway, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bergen and Mont-Saint-Michel, we can see that Mont-Saint-Michel is more expensive. And not only is Bergen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bergen would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bergen and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Mont-Saint-Michel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mont-Saint-Michel than you might in Bergen.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bergen Expensive? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Bergen has a larger population, and is about 2670 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Bergen and Mont-Saint-Michel, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bergen and Mont-Saint-Michel. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bergen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bergen is generally cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Bergen average around 15°C (58°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

Bergen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Bergen usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bergen gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bergen as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. Many travelers come to Bergen for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, many visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Bergen is cooler than Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bergen averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Bergen receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bergen usually gets more rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bergen gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Winter?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Bergen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bergen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Bergen can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Bergen is much colder than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bergen in January average around 2°C (35°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

It's quite rainy in Bergen. In January, Bergen usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bergen gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bergen or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Spring?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Bergen during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bergen for the small town charm during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Mont-Saint-Michel because of the natural beauty.

In April, Bergen is generally much colder than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Bergen average around 6°C (43°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergen. Bergen usually gets more rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bergen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Bergen